Heatwave Fuels Rise in Drowning Deaths Across the Western United States

A prolonged heatwave sweeping the western and central United States has coincided with a string of water-related fatalities. In June, two college students were swept out to sea by turbulent waves on a Santa Cruz, California beach. A week later, two brothers were found dead in the Trinity River, a popular rafting spot that has recorded several casualties this summer. In southern California, a bodysurfer at Laguna Beach died after losing consciousness, and earlier this summer a five-year-old girl was engulfed by a wave at the same beach.

The Guardian

Officials from the National Park Service (NPS) stress that water temperature often lags behind air temperature; water colder than 70 °F can trigger cold-shock, impairing breathing and swimming ability. Mike Garel, chief ranger for the NPS Lake Mead national recreation area, warned, “Don’t assume that what was safe somewhere else is safe here.” Federal health agencies reiterate long-standing advice to wear life vests, avoid alcohol or drugs, and keep a constant visual on any swimmer in distress. Bystanders are cautioned against untrained rescues that may endanger both the victim and the rescuer.

The Guardian

CDC data for 2018-2024 show that drowning deaths rise each year from April through September, a pattern now amplified by the heatwave’s extended high temperatures. The NPS notes that many rivers, lakes and oceans remain below 80 °F even in summer, increasing the risk of cold-shock.

The Guardian

• “Don’t assume that what was safe somewhere else is safe here,” — Mike Garel, an NPS Lake Mead national recreation area chief ranger.

The Guardian